Director, Protein Engineering and Optimization

We are seeking a Director to lead our Protein Engineering and Optimization team. This position reports to the Vice President of Discovery and will play a crucial role in accelerating protein engineering projects to design and optimize novel genome editing systems. You will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact as you partner with the rest of the Metagenomi team to develop novel gene editing tools for human therapeutic development. T his role is based in Emeryville, California. About the Role In this role, you will lead a team of protein engineers to design and execute projects aimed at improving genome editing system activity, specificity, and applicability. To achieve this, you will: Work with leadership to expand protein engineering capabilities and strategies in a fast-paced startup environment Collaborate with Computational Biology and Automation teams to optimize new systems based on rational design, directed evolution, and AI Guide the development of selection methods and high throughput screening assays Prepare accurate and timely data summaries, contribute to the writing of reports, patents, and manuscripts, and present findings to key stakeholders and at external meetings Foster an inclusive, curious, and mission-driven culture of innovation. Desired Qualifications  Ph.D. in protein engineering, chemical engineering, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related discipline At least ten years of closely related protein engineering industry experience, with at least five years of experience managing teams and cross-functional projects  Hands-on experience with molecular cloning techniques, deep mutational scanning, directed evolution, reporter assay design, structure-guided protein design, and both long- and short-read high-throughput sequencing Experience engineering CRISPR and other systems for gene editing Experience with mammalian cell transfection and lentiviral transduction Experience with protein expression and purification Excellent oral and written communication skills, particularly when collaborating with other teams with limited knowledge of your area of expertise Track record of growing and promoting scientists both with respect to their technical and professional development Highly collaborative, team-oriented, and considerate of the needs of others Extremely organized and able to efficiently manage your time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities.   The anticipated base salary range for this position will be $195,000 to $230,000 depending on the exact level of the role. As this role is open to candidates with a wide range of skills and experience, the salary will be dependent on the specific level of the position. We value transparency and will make every effort to provide you with a succinct explanation of how the final salary within this range is determined.   Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.   About Metagenomi Metagenomi is a gene editing company committed to developing potentially curative therapeutics by leveraging a proprietary toolbox of next-generation gene editing systems to accurately edit DNA where current technologies cannot. Our metagenomics-powered discovery platform and analytical expertise reveal novel cellular machinery sourced from otherwise unknown organisms. We adapt and forge these naturally evolved systems into powerful gene editing systems that are ultra-small, extremely efficient, highly specific and have a decreased risk of immune response. These systems fuel our pipeline of novel medicines and can be leveraged by partners. Our goal is to revolutionize gene editing for the benefit of patients around the world. For more information, please visit https://metagenomi.co/.   What makes Metagenomi a unique place to work? We are passionate about developing technologies derived from microbial-rich ecosystems that have the power to enable therapeutic development and the potential to cure devastating disease. We have cultivated an amazing culture that values teamwork, curiosity, scientific rigor, and fun. We have a strong commitment to work/life balance, host a weekly employee happy hour and events, provide catered lunches and endless snacks, and more!  We offer competitive compensation including a market-benchmarked salary, annual target bonus, equity in an early-stage startup, and a comprehensive benefits plan, including 401(k) matching, a retirement safe harbor plan, and other perks.   At Metagenomi, we know that our people drive our success. We are an equal-opportunity employer and believe in and value diversity and inclusion. Metagenomi provides an open, collegial, and friendly work environment where we empower people and provide them with opportunities to develop their long-term careers. Metagenomi does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, age, physical or mental disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Please note, all candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.   Applicants/Employees have rights under various State and Federal Employment Laws, including without limitation:   Family & Medical Leave Act    Equal Employment Opportunity Commission   Employee Polygraph Protection Act    California Family Rights Act    California Fair Employment and Housing Act   Notice to agencies: Our in-house Talent Acquisition Team manages all employment opportunities at Metagenomi. Agencies and independent recruiters must be approved as a vendor by Metagenomi’s Talent Acquisition team. To protect the interests of all parties, Metagenomi will not accept unsolicited resumes, profiles, or biographies. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Metagenomi will be considered referrals and the property of Metagenomi.